atlantis walking tour

Your Trip to the Bahamas: The Complete Guide

Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Lynden Pindling International Airport Guide

48 Hours in the Bahamas

Day Trips From Nassau

Top Things to Do in the Bahamas

Best Things to Do in Nassau

The Bahamas' Best Beaches

Snorkeling in the Bahamas

Shopping in the Bahamas

Bahamian Food to Try

Nassau's Best Restaurants

Best Bars in the Bahamas

How to Take a Day Trip to Atlantis Paradise Island in the Bahamas

The Atlantis Resort on Paradise Island is an entire tropical world unto itself. This Bahamian resort boasts casinos, underwater shark walks, and frolicking dolphins. As one of the most famous hotels in the Bahamas , the Atlantis also boasts multiple hotel towers and specific resort sections to accommodate a wide variety of guests' every wish. But, you don’t need to be a guest at the resort to visit this mega-resort. In fact, millions of visitors to Nassau take a quick taxi or water-shuttle ride to experience the resort's casinos and restaurants. From information on the top attractions to details about how to get there (and which day pass to reserve), read on for your ultimate guide to day-tripping to Atlantis Paradise Island.

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Attractions and Things to Do at Atlantis Paradise Island

There are 85 gaming tables, 21 restaurants, and 19 bars and lounges at Atlantis Paradise Island. However, while throwing down some cash on the craps tables or roulette wheel may satisfy some visitors, others—especially families—are drawn to the Atlantis' aquatic allure; specifically the resort's spectacular "lost world" themed water park, dolphin encounter program, beaches, and the underground mysteries of The Dig, a walk-through exploration of the Lost City of Atlantis. Day tickets for all of these activities can be purchased at Discover Atlantis Sales Centers located throughout the property.

Given the hordes of visitors to the Atlantis daily, it's not surprising that the resort limits access to some of these attractions—notably the Aquaventure pool and water park area—to preserve a premier experience for hotel guests. However, that does not mean that day-trippers can't visit the Atlantis attractions, including Aquaventure; you'll have to pay a bit for the privilege (and expect a significant markup on these prices if you buy through a cruise line).

• Dolphin Cay at Atlantis: Day visitors can swim and play with Atlantic bottlenose dolphins at the state-of-the-art, 14-acre habitat.
• Discover Atlantis Tour: This tour is best known to day-trippers, in part because it is sold as an excursion on cruise ships. Expert "Navigators" guide visitors through the ancient city streets of Atlantis during a visit to "The Dig," a faux-but-believable archaeological exploration of an 11,000-year-old lost continent. The attraction is full of interesting artifacts, along with great water effects and glimpses of exotic sea life, including piranha, moon jellyfish, venomous lionfish, and a resident manta ray. A Discover Atlantis Tour wristband allows visitors to explore The Dig and its exhibits as well as the Ruins, Predator, and Water’s Edge Lagoons—but not the waterpark.
• Atlantis Beach Day: The Atlantis Beach Day program provides all-day access to the Atlantis resort's exclusive white sandy beaches, with lounge chairs and towels provided. It also includes access to marine habitats and lunch at an outside venue.
• Atlantis Aquaventure Package : Day-trippers can purchase an Atlantis Aquaventure package that provides all-day access to pools, beaches, and Aquaventure, a 141-acre waterscape containing over 20 million gallons of water with water slides, and a mile-long river ride with high-intensity rapids and wave surges. The passes are only available to guests staying at partners of the Atlantis Resort. They can be purchased (on a restricted basis) at the Atlantis Adventures Desk at the clock tower in front of The Coral.

How to Get There

Paradise Island (formerly Hog Island) is a 685-acre island off the northern coast of Nassau, the capital of the island of New Providence. There is no public transport to take you to Paradise Island—the local bus system, the "jitney," will only take you as far as the ferry terminal, so your best bet is either to take a ferry or a taxi.

To access Paradise Island by water, hop aboard a 15-minute ferry ride from Nassau to Paradise Island. The ferry departs from Nassau Cruise Port from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and costs $3 for a one-way ticket. On your boat ride to Paradise Island, a guide will also give you a brief history lesson of the island and its many attractions. Once you've arrived on Paradise Island, it's a 10-minute walk from the ferry dock to Marina Village in Atlantis.

If you decide to rent a car, note that there is limited free parking available on Paradise Island (and limited spots are found near the public beach). The best alternative is to valet your vehicle at the cost of $16.75 per day. Whether you're driving or opting for a taxi, be prepared to pay the northbound one-way $1 bridge toll. In taxis, this will be on top of your metered fare—and the average cost for a one-way trip from Lynden Pindling International Airport to Paradise Island is about $35. Another alternative is to be dropped off along the coast of New Providence to walk across the bridge (an activity that is toll-free). Once you've arrived on the island, there's no need to rent a car, as visitors can easily walk the grounds and explore everything the hotel has to offer on foot.

Day passes are mandatory for all non-hotel guests at the Atlantis to experience Dolphin Cay, the waterpark, the marine habitat, and the beaches. The passes can be purchased (on a restricted basis) at the Atlantis Adventures desk, situated at the clock tower at The Coral. These passes have been known to sell out, so it's imperative to book online in advance. World Travel Holdings also sells day passes to Aquaventure, Atlantis Dolphin Cay, and the iconic British Colonial Hilton. These passes are marketed primarily to cruise visitors but can be an excellent add-on for anyone visiting Nassau.

• The Aquaventure pass includes admission to Aquaventure and The Dig, lounge chairs, and towels.
• Dolphin Cay experiences include a shallow-water interaction with dolphins.
• The British Colonial Hilton pass includes all-day access to the resort's pristine private beach and pool, snorkeling and kayaking, lounge chairs and towels, and a food and beverage credit.

Tips for Visitors

• There's more to Paradise Island than just the Atlantis, so be sure to explore the rest of the island. We suggest hiking to the Nassau lighthouse for gorgeous seaside views along the coast. Of all the waterpark attractions, the underwater shark walk is not to be missed—imagine a turquoise tunnel full of predators. (It's as scary and thrilling as it sounds).
• There is no visitor information center in Paradise Island, so make sure to consult downtown the tourist information available for visitors in downtown Nassau.
• If you're planning on staying for dinnertime, make a reservation in advance, as restaurants can become busy, especially in the colder months. Additionally, the resort will limit attractions during the peak busy season to preserve hotel guests' experience—a hindrance that won't be an issue for you if you're visiting during the off-season. If you're visiting in the off-season (summer and fall), expect fewer crowds—for the waterslides and the bars and restaurants, alike.
• If you're taking the ferry to Paradise Island, remember to bring cash. Although exact change isn't necessary, it's helpful as you will be expected to tip your tour guides, who provide colorful commentary and historical insight into the past and present-day iterations of Nassau and Paradise Island.

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Discover Atlantis Tour

New Providence

Strolling through a glass tunnel while sharks glide overhead is, simply put, awesome. This thrill is found in the Predator’s Lagoon, one of the exhibits on this walking tour of Atlantis’ Marine Habitat aquariums and faux-archaeological sites. Look for manta rays, spiny lobsters, striped Nemos, translucent jellyfish and thousands of other sea creatures in the underground Great Hall of Waters.

Note the speculative 'Atlantic' hieroglyphics and artifacts along the way. If you're in a hurry, check out the aquariums in the lobby of Atlantis Royal Towers hotel for free.

Atlantis, 1 Casino Dr

Get In Touch

242-363-3000

https://​www​.atlantisbahamas​.com​/

Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Clifton Heritage National Park

14.88 MILES

The scrub forest, wetlands, beaches and historic relics of Clifton Heritage National Park narrowly avoided being bulldozed to make space for new tourist…

National Art Gallery of the Bahamas

Anchoring the West Hill St tourist enclave, the National Art Gallery is a welcome oasis inside the stately 1860s-era Villa Doyle and one of the gems in…

Graycliff Cigar Co

Wandering into this cigar factory is like falling into 1920s Cuba. In a narrow, smoke-yellowed room with old-fashioned mosaic floors, torcedores (cigar…

John Watling's Distillery

Watling's, relatively new to the Bahamian rum-distilling game, has found a home in the beautifully restored 18th-century Buena Vista Estate, its extensive…

Junkanoo Beach

Between downtown Nassau and Arawak Cay, Junkanoo is popular with locals and visitors alike, with beach-shack bars, volleyball nets, sky-juice vendors and…

Pirates of Nassau

It's hard to ignore the pirate pacing outside and posing for selfies on the pedestrianized strip off George St. The walk-through exhibition space trades…

Fort Fincastle & the Queen’s Staircase

Set on a small hill just south of downtown Nassau, this small fort was built by Lord Dunmore in 1793 to guard the harbor against invaders. Never used, it…

Government House

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Nearby New Providence attractions

1 . Paradise Beach

Another beauty, Paradise Beach curves gently along the northwest shore of the island. The resorts have their own facilities, but nonguests pay for…

2 . Cabbage Beach

While the west end of this stretch of sand – one of the more popular in New Providence – is obscured by the Atlantis resort, there is public access to the…

3 . Bahamas Historical Society Museum

Documents, household artifacts, pirate engravings, model ships and more tell the story of 500 years of life in the Bahamas at this small but engaging…

4 . Prince George Wharf

The historic cruise-ship wharf, north of Rawson Sq and Bay St, is the gateway to Nassau for more than a million visitors a year. Fronted by bustling…

5 . Versailles Gardens

This hushed, symmetrical formal garden is the last thing you expect to find on bling-lovin’ Paradise Island, but here it is. The terraced landscape is…

6 . Rawson Square

Rawson Square is a natural place to begin exploring Nassau, and a meeting-point for guided walks. Nearby is a life-sized bronze statue of a Bahamian Woman…

7 . Parliament Square

The area immediately south of Rawson Sq on Bay St is known as Parliament Sq. On three sides of the square nestle three pink-and-white Georgian…

8 . Nassau Public Library

For chills with your historical thrills, stop by this 1797 pink octagon, once a jail and workhouse for the poor. The cells are now tranquil reading nooks,…

Discover Nassau Sightseeing Tour plus Atlantis Resort Visit

• Traveling by air-conditioned coach makes for a convenient way to explore
• Port pickup and drop-off are included on this hassle-free excursion
• Learn more about the city and its sights from your guide’s commentary
• Visit Fort Fincastle, the Atlantis Resort, and other highlights
• See itinerary
• Port pickup and drop-off
• Air-conditioned vehicle
• Local guide
• Live commentary on board
• Entry/Admission - Queen's Staircase
• Food and drinks (Available at many of the tour stops)
• Entry/Admission - Fort Fincastle
• Prince George Wharf, 2 Charlotte St, Nassau, The Bahamas Your tour departs from the cruise terminal. From your ship, walk to the terminal. You will walk through the terminal to exit the pier. When you exit the pier turn left outside the building and you will see the Hair Braiding Center. Look for our guide with sign.
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Stroller accessible
• Near public transportation
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Most travelers can participate
• Collapsible wheelchairs can be accommodated providing the passenger is accompanied by someone who can assist them while they board and disembark
• This tour/activity will have a maximum of 23 travelers
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
• Queen's Staircase
• Fort Fincastle
• The Bahamas Rum Cake Factory

Similar experiences

• You'll start at Prince George Wharf 2 Charlotte St, Nassau, The Bahamas Your tour departs from the cruise terminal. From your ship, walk to the terminal. You will walk through the terminal to exit the pier. When you exit the pier turn left outside the building and you will see the Hair Braiding Center. Look for our guide with sign. See address & details
• 1 Fort Fincastle Stop: 15 minutes - Admission excluded See details
• 2 Queen's Staircase Stop: 15 minutes - Admission included See details Pass by Government House
• 3 Gregory's Arch Stop: 5 minutes See details
• 4 The Bahamas Rum Cake Factory Stop: 15 minutes See details
• 5 Atlantis Bahamas Stop: 15 minutes See details Pass by Paradise Island
• You'll return to the starting point

• richardtQ3857AG 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Conch salad and Guinness Nice spot overlooking the harbor to sit and have local food and entertainment green parrot east Bay Street Read more Written July 16, 2019
• bobsboy_texas 0 contributions 4.0 of 5 bubbles Discover Atlantis Guided Tour It's a huge resort, with a big casino, water activities, and aquariums that are simply awesome! Every kind of sea creature you can think of, including a manta-ray, sharks, and so much more. Take a guided tour, or simply book the resort for your entire vacation. Read more Written November 25, 2018
• Prunellanj 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Viator van tour We booked this excursion through Viator and we were not disappointed. We walked from our cruise ship across the docks and our air conditioned van was waiting with KEVIN. We had 10 people in the van which made touring places very easy and no waiting from stop to stop. KEVIN was very informative and very kind. Well worth the money. Rum tasting Rum cake Atlantis and A Fort Awesome!! Read more Written August 31, 2016
• tkup2016 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Worth it but don't be late! I feel like we definitely got our money's worth on this guided tour around Nassau. We learned a lot and squeezed in a lot in the two hours. It was fun and informative! Highly recommend the tour and even more so, highly recommend that you're there 10-15 minutes before the start time. We were there on time and missed the bus by less than a minute. They made it right by putting us a cab and meeting the tour bus at the first scheduled stop. Be there early and you will not be disappointed! Read more Written April 12, 2016
• SLG5390 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Fun My daughter and I had a wonderful excursion. The guides were very pleasant and funny. The excursion lasts for three hours; 1 hour by boat and the remainder by bus. We enjoyed sites such as the fort, Queen's staircase and Atlantis. During the bus ride, the guide pointed out other places of interest and informed us of some Bahamian history. It was a great tour. My only complaint would be that during the stops on the bus ride where we were able to get off and venture out, we had only 25 minutes to do so before the bus reloaded and moved on. So 25 minutes at Atlantis does not give you enough time to enjoy it or the Queen's staircase. My suggestion is they should extend the tour to allot more time during the stops. Overall I thought it was great time and I would recommend to others who want to do more than just lay out on the beach. Btw, they do offer refreshing drinks on the boat ride and we were told that upon boarding. Dress comfortably and take your camera. Definitely worthwhile. Thanks to Lisa, Peter and Richard and our boat captain for a great venture. Read more Written April 6, 2016
• 2happytravelers19 0 contributions 1.0 of 5 bubbles never showed up Booked the land and sea tour for 2/15/16 for my husband and I. I made the reservation on line and got confirmation. Soon after I received a second e-mail cancelling reservation and saying to let them know if I wanted to rebook. The money was charged to my credit card. I e-mailed them again saying I still wanted the tour. They answered that they received message to cancel. I told them to rebook and got no response for about a week. I then got a phone call from Bonnie who told me it was just a glitch, no worries, we were on the list. She told me exactly where to go to meet catamaran for sea portion of tour. On the morning of the tour, we went to the meeting place, which was exactly as she described. No one met us, no boats at dock at all. The only person there was a guard who told us that this was where the catamaran docked to pick up tourists. We waited awhile and no one came. We called Bonnie and she said Tami our tour guide was there and looking for us. Impossible we were the only people there she couldn't miss us! We asked Bonnie to have Tami call us which she never did. After about a half hour we walked across the road where many other tours were meeting,still no Tami. Other tour guides were helping us but no one ever heard of Tami. We ventured into the straw market where there were still more tours, but not ours. We searched for over an hour before we gave up and went on another more expensive tour and not everything we really wanted to see. We were on a cruise and had very limited time in Nassau before we had to board the ship again, so we had to shorten out tour time. Arriving home we got an e-mail from Bonnie apologizing saying this wasn't an indication of how the company usually runs. I think because the sea portion of the tour was new, according to their website, they forgot to book us on it. Bonnie promised a complete refund and had she followed through with that I would have chalked it up to unfortunate errors. However, it's been over a month now and no refund so I have to believe that this company is a scam. Be very careful before booking a tour with Discover Nassau Tours! Read more Written March 16, 2016
• ValueTraveler19454 0 contributions 2.0 of 5 bubbles Not worth the money We wanted to get a feel for the area - this was not really what we were hoping for. Most of the time was spent at a fort but there was a school field trip there - since there was only one narrow flight of stairs to get to the top and so many kids were coming down we had no time to enjoy the fort. Driver had no pa system so sitting only 1/2 way back there was no way to hear what she said. Skip the tour and take the water taxi over to Atlantis which is what everyone wants to see - or use the day in port as a shopping day. Read more Written March 1, 2016
• MikeTu 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great Value, lots to see. After leaving our cruise ship, we were greeted then walked over to the waiting boat to take us on a 45 -60 min tour of the bay. The boat crew was fantastic. The man narrating the tour was funny. We passed beautiful celebrity homes and yachts. The water was calm and the sites were beautiful. After we boarded an air conditioned bus and took a nice sightseeing tour around the city stopping at the castle and of course Atlantis. I enjoyed the tour. I just wish the boat ride was longer. A word of advice..It got warm on the boat deck. We sat in the front. No one (until over 1/2 thru the boat ride) told us the bar was open. So while the guide was talking, I went to the bar and had some refreshments before he made the announcement. They had alcohol and non alcohol drinks available. I think he should have announced as soon as the boat leaves the dock that refreshments are available. You could see passengers were starting to over heat. However this was a very enjoyable leisurely tour. Read more Written November 18, 2015
• DavisFamilyBayboro 0 contributions 4.0 of 5 bubbles Nice little Tour!!! We used one of the tourists guides that are waiting as soon as you get off the cruise ship! He gave us a really good tour of the island and only charged $10.00 a piece! Read more Written September 10, 2015
• JaneJohan 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Charming day on the island It was a bright and sunny day….my experience with Discover Nassau made me felt like I was living in those essays you were force to write about when you went back to school and the teacher either asked you about your summer or perfect summer day. It was the perfect day for my family and I. The sunny was shinning, but it was not too hot, and a gentle breeze slapped about, tossing my hair. The staff was lovely and warm. The color of the sea, oh the color, like nothing I had ever seen in person, was a stunning teal. The historical oration left us, the guests with a small affinity to the little island. The sites had remnants of an old world. I can’t stop telling everyone about this trip. It was amazing. Read more Written August 7, 2015
• Noelle W 0 contributions 4.0 of 5 bubbles Bahamas 101 We got to sample much of The Bahamian history and was able to take so many photos of landmarks. The orator was funny and nice and really made sure his passengers were always doing okay. The only thing missing was food that would have made this a five star tour. I still recommend this tour highly. It was very pleasant. Read more Written August 5, 2015
• monique w 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Land and Sea This historical tour was truely amazing. The sightseeing and monuments was nice. The land/sea experience was absolutely wonderful. I thoroughly enjoyed this experience. I recommend to anyone. Read more Written August 4, 2015
• Priscilastubbs 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great Tour Great tour! It showed the island in a compact, but relaxing way and from an angle you could not see from the land alone! I liked the duration of the tour; as a cruise ship guest with limited time on the island, I liked that there was a great deal of time left to explore downtown and hunt for some local eats. Read more Written August 3, 2015
• John S 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles So much to see I took my son (8) on this trip and we had a great time. He loved the boat cruise, there was a wonderful breeze, historical sights, and a friendly staff. And it was the perfect length of time to keep his interest (about an hour on the boat). The bus portion was also fantastic. His favorite part was the Fort, where we were able to get out and explore and bought a few souveniers at the shops. And the final stop at the Atlantis was perfect for pictures and a little exploring. It was so beautiful and impressive. We had the option to stay but decided to go back to the cruise ship. Overall, great trip, tons to see and kept my son busy and very interested. Will do again when my daughter is a little older. Read more Written August 3, 2015

More to explore in New Providence Island

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Discover Nassau Sightseeing Tour plus Atlantis Resort Visit provided by Discover Nassau Tour

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Discover Atlantis

Discover Atlantis Tour in Nassau

There's only one place in the world where you can embark on a journey to the mysterious lost city of Atlantis by way of stunning life exhibits. With this one-of-a-kind Nassau excursion watch the legend of Atlantis come to life as you embark on this guided tour through the paths and tunnels of the legendary lost city. Reflecting the tunnels and thoroughfares of the lost continent, "The Dig" at Atlantis Paradise Island features over 100 venomous Indo-Pacific Lionfish, 500 piranhas, iridescent jellyfish, and six-foot Moray Eels.

Special environments hold nine species of enormous groupers, while smaller separate "Jewel Habitats" are home to multitudes of brilliantly-colored tropical fish. Don't miss the awe-inspiring, interactive touch tank aquarium. Filled with conch, starfish, sea urchins, sea cucumbers, crabs, and horseshoe crabs, the tank is designed to encourage interaction between vacationers of all ages and marine life of all kinds.

You will then make your way to Predator Lagoon, located under and adjacent to the Lagoon Bar & Grill and Paradise Lagoon. Don't miss this rare exhibit showcasing Great Hammerhead sharks Caribbean Reef sharks, barracuda and Small Tooth Sawfish.

Please Note: In order to participate on this tour, please make sure to bring a photo ID, your excursions voucher and your ship card. This activity is for cruise passengers only and guests who do not bring the required documentation will not be able to participate. Tours are either self-guided or with a staff member. If you would like to join a guided tour, simply check the guided tours time table once on the property for information. Guided tours normally start every half hour. This tour does not include access to the Atlantis pools, beaches or Aquaventure. Guests under 4 years of age are admitted free of charge.

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A Walking Tour of Nassau, Bahamas

Nassau is compact and easy to see in a day, which is quite convenient considering many visitors (coming off cruise ships) only have that long to see it.  This would also be a great walking tour for those staying at Atlantis or other hotels on Paradise Island, as that is the starting location.

For my last day in the Bahamas, I vowed to tackle as many Nassau highlights as I could. Here’s what I got up to.

1. Potter’s Cay

Under the bridge from Atlantis you will find Potter’s Cay , one of my favorite spots in all of Nassau.

Potter’s Cay is a shipping dock and hub of activity located beneath the bridges going to and from Paradise Island. The bars lining the entrance are a great place to grab a cheap Kalik local beer, try super fresh conch and rub shoulders with the locals. If you walk through early in the morning bars won’t yet be open, but there will be plenty of activity further beneath the bridge.

You’ll find islanders unloading their wares in the market section, selling everything from shriveled dead fish to creaking live crabs.

Pushing even further back under the bridge you’ll find barges and small fishing boats, colorful graffiti and amazing murals.

At the far end of Potter’s Cay you can see over the top of that barges straight across the bridges through to Atlantis . I marvel at the fact that such an amazing place with such strong local flavor can exist side by side with such a megalith manufactured resort (one that brought us great riches not too long ago!) What a poignant image.

2. A Bit of History and Hospitality

Walking in towards Nassau town on Bay Street, you will pass a grand church on your left at the aptly named Church Street. It wasn’t listed in my guidebooks or any maps but I was able to identify it as St. Matthews with a bit of google sleuthing.

While we wandered around the grounds of this church, we encountered the caretaker who approached us kindly, asking how we were enjoying our stay in the Bahamas. His eyes lit up when we told him about our trip through the outer islands and he offered us a tour of the grounds of what he then informed us was the oldest church in the Bahamas. Speaking with him was one of the highlights of the day!

It’s a beautiful building and worth nosing around to look for. Even more impressive was the hospitality of the caretaker, just another reminder of the kindness of the Bahamian people.

3. Cruise Mania

About 3/4ths of a mile past Potter’s Cay you will reach the cruise ship terminal. I actually went here looking for the Junkanoo Expo, which was very poorly marked on maps and I never did find. But there were some floats and costumes in the terminal from Junkanoo (the Bahamas biggest festival) so it wasn’t a total loss.

4. Rawson Square

Rawson Square is a filled with benches in which to hide in the shade and get some respite from the hot Bahamas sun. Across the street is the grand pink parliament building, where lawmakers still wear full white wigs!

4. Junkanoo Beach

Junkanoo Beach is a beautiful and conveniently located stretch of sand. On my way into the Bahamas from the airport, my taxi driver informed me that not long ago it was only a local’s spot and he marveled that tourists now use this beach as well. I can see why they do, and its somewhere between the white sand and glassy blue water. Looking off in one direction you are treated to the sight of a charming lighthouse, and in the other direction, the giants of Bahamas tourism: Atlantis and the cruise ship. There is also some great graffiti to check out.

5. The Pirate Museum

What could possibly top a repository of pirate memorabilia and a chance to take cheesy photos with an extra from The Black Pearl? Say arrrrgh!

When you approach Pirates of Nassau , prepare to be hassled by costumed ticket takers who are surprisingly convincing and only break character to ask you what model SLR camera you are carrying.

Upon entering the building you will be greeted by a life-size recreation of a pirate ship. Along with the accompanying soundtrack and and light show, it really does feel like you were in Nassau harbor as it was being pillaged by pirates. Well, you know, if Nassau harbour had drop ceilings and halogen lights. Moving into the ship, we encountered life size dioramas and fact filled and educational signage.

I was surprised how big the building was, and I actually did learn about the original “true” pirates, including my liveaboard boat’s namesake, Blackbeard . In the last room there were genuine artifacts and antiques, as well as more information about Nassau’s deep connection to the pirate world. It lent an authentic air to the whole affair.

My favorite part? I think its obvious: the photo ops. I would pay the admission price — $12 — to play with these backdrops alone. Don’t forget to come armed with your camera specs for the guys holding a fake gun to your head.

6. Balcony House

The 18th century Balcony House is the oldest residential structure in Nassau. There are tours available, but we were just walking by as the house is right around the corner from the Pirate Museum.

7. Nassau Public Library and Museum

I love libraries. This one would be interesting even to non-bibliophiles for its unusual octagonal shape and the fact that it used to be Nassau’s jail. The cells are now lined with books and historic prints.

The second floor was sadly closed for repairs when we stopped by, but it seemed like the views would be great.

8. Keep Your Eyes Peeled for Art

While walking around Nassau I kept noticing interesting art works shown in public. Some of them were really fun and I couldn’t wait to look up the website on the accompanying signs (you can see the sign above in the top left corner).

It turned out to be a public arts project aimed at sprucing up Nassau sponsored by Coca Cola, using all art from local artists. There is a map of all the pieces, from murals to sculptures on the website . I wish I had known about this beforehand because it would make for a really fun day walking around trying to see them all. Here are a few of my favorites. Points for art, for supporting the local arts movement, and for urban beautification!

Want to do it yourself? View and print my Walking Tour of Nassau, Bahamas on Google Maps! Enjoy!

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Great pictures Al. Too bad in our two trips to Atlantis we never the left the grounds to check this all out.

Two trips? I was only invited on one! 🙂

I loved this travel narrative! I’m just about to start writing about my time in Nassau too. It’s like my 2nd home, so I always love reading about it. Great pics!!!

I was hoping you would write about that trip! Looking forward to it 🙂

Nice post! And great photos.. I’m in Nassau, enjoying the local, the food, the beaches, everything!

Glad you’re having a great trip Kate! Happy travels!

That’s so colourful! It’s beautiful there. Coming from Hong Kong I really dream watching those pics…

Nassau really is gorgeous. Definitely take time to explore it if you make that Bahamas trip happen 🙂

How long did it take you to do this walk?

Hey Erin, I’m so sorry but it’s been years since I was in the Bahamas and I don’t quite remember anymore! I’d set aside most of the day to be able to enjoy it 🙂 Sorry I can’t be of more help!

Hey Alex! I’ve been looking through all your Caribbean posts and I was hoping you could give me your opinion on something. My sister and I are taking our parents on a trip next summer and we can’t decide between the Bahamas, Bermuda and the Cayman Islands. Since you’ve been to all three what do you think would be better if we’re trying to keep the costs low but still have a good time? Thanks!

The Bahamas definitely has the most room for affordability, out of the three — Bermuda and Cayman are incredibly upscale. You can flash a lot of cash in the Bahamas too but there are also other options 🙂 And the people there are insanely friendly, too. Hope that helps! I love the Caribbean.

The Nassau Public Library was originally built as an auction house for slaves. Later it was converted to a jail and now it is used as a library.

Wow, quite the history for one little building. Thanks for sharing, Ebony.

I will be going to Nassau, Bahamas in a few months. All this information will be greatly beneficial for me when I get to experience the Caribbean culture!

Awesome Sara! I can’t think of a better way to kick off a trip to Nassau than with this little tour! Enjoy!

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• Caribbean & Bahamas
• Travel Tips

Downtown Nassau on Your Own: Walking Guide

For Jean and other friends leaving for the Bahamas soon…

Last month I cruised the Bahamas on two back-to-back cruises , both times stopping in Nassau.  I had visited Nassau before and did the full day Atlantis Resort excursion, but I wanted to see and experience historic (and touristic) Nassau.  So this time we explored Downtown Nassau on our own.  We planned a general route using a Franko map (link below), and then went with the flow of island life by finding more attractions on our own.  I even found a winery (I know you’re all shocked)!  I’ve put together a Walking Guide for 6 Hours in Nassau without a Cruise Excursion including all the highlights we saw and repeated during those two days at port and included a PDF for download at the bottom of this post.

Cruise Terminal & Parliament Square

Not having a cruise excursion planned or really just any expectations of Nassau, I knew I at least wanted to see Fort Fincastle and Queen’s Staircase.  So we made a beeline down the cruise docks, through the terminal, and headed straight for those two attractions.  What we enjoyed along the way was the most gorgeous harbor and Parliament Square right across the street from the terminal exit.  The buildings of Parliament Square were constructed in 1815 and fashioned after the old capital of North Carolina, New Bern.  Make sure you visit Queen Victoria’s statue in the center of the square and read the historical markers on the adjacent buildings.

Queen’s Staircase & Fort Fincastle

We just so happened to approach Queen’s Staircase via Elizabeth Ave and I highly recommend following our lead.  With this approach, you walk through a lovely tropical limestone “canyon,” completed in 1794, that leads to the 66 (65 visible) steps of Queen’s Staircase, celebrating Queen Victoria’s 64 years of reign.  At the top of the staircase and to the right (you cant miss it), is a large water tower and surprisingly little, but no less intimidating, Fort Fincastle.  Built in 1793 atop Bennet’s Hill, Fort Fincastle is the highest fort on the island.  Pay admission to enter the fort and you will see the entire island on a clear day.

Bahama Barrels Winery & Fresh Conch Salad

From there we decided to head west on Shirley towards Graycliff Chocolate Co. but what we found along the way was a tall colorful sign pointing to a winery.  I must have an internal compass that points towards the nearest winery.  We popped in Bahama Barrels Winery for a tasting and really enjoyed ourselves.  Turns out, the winery had only been open less than 6 months to happily fill a niche.  We stayed for some local conch salad prepared next door and had a lovely lunch on the patio.  If you visit and Jasmine is pouring your wine, please tell her “hello!” for me.

Graycliff Hotel Restaurant

If you have more than a few hours, or if it’s raining and you just don’t want to be out in it, stop by Graycliff Hotel and enjoy fine dining in their restaurant.  This was the case on the second day our cruise ship docked in Nassau (conch salad the first time).  On that same road, there’s also a pizzeria and a little bistro.  Plenty of options here!

Graycliff Chocolate Co. & Cigar Co.

After we properly wined and dined, we visited Graycliff Chocolate Co. for a tour and chocolate tasting.  We really enjoyed seeing the chocolate making process as well as the craftsmanship in filling and painting the chocolates for each flavor and season.  We also visited the Cigar shop and watched them roll a few.

John Watling’s Distillery & Casino Royale Filming Location

Further west is John Watling’s Distillery on the grounds of the 1789 Buena Vista Estate, where they offer free tours and pina colada tastings, and an opportunity to purchase rum that isn’t exported or shipped.  Not being much of a rum fan myself, I opted for a rum flight and was shocked at how wonderful each of their rums and rice vodka were (so I went back for more during the next visit)!  We also spotted a sign in the estate’s lawn marking a Casino Royale (2006) filming location, the fictional Madagascar Embassy.  I looked for Daniel Craig but couldn’t find him…

Western Esplanade Beach/Junkanoo Beach

Full of wine, food, and rum, we headed straight north to Junkanoo Beach (Western Esplanade Beach on the map).  This beach is one of the only (or the only?) free beach on the island, and it is beautiful!  We enjoyed seeing the blue water again and walked along the water heading east towards the cruise terminal.

Pirates of Nassau Museum & Smugglers

Since we had time, we visited the Pirate Museum (bright flamingo colored building) for a tour.  This was neat!  They also encouraged us to grab a glass of wine before the tour at Smuggler’s next door, which we happily obliged!  After the tour, we went back to Smuggler’s/Starbucks for pistachio gelato and an espresso.

Six hours is plenty to do and see many attractions in Downtown Nassau.  On my first visit, I logged 9 miles walked and on the second visit I logged 10 miles walked.  Didn’t even feel like it!  The sites listed above are what we saw, but there’s plenty more!  Let me know what you discover on your own!

Download Free PDF Downtown Nassau on Your Own Walking Guide for 6 hours in Nassau without a Cruise Excursion here:  NassauWalkingMap

More Cruise Tips, Packing Lists, and Past Cruise Adventures:

First 24 Hours on a Cruise Ship: Do’s and Don’ts

Cruise Tips: Planning and Packing

My Cruise Kit: The Practical & the Ridiculous

A Cruise Must: Chef’s Table on Carnival Cruises

How I Maximize Relaxation & Fun on Cruise Sea Days

What’s a Back-to-Back Cruise?

Cruise Packing Lists: Backpack & Rolling Suitcase Packing Checklists

Carry-On Suitcase Packing List (Packing Checklist for the Overhead Bin)

Carry-On Bag Packing List (Packing Checklist for Under the Seat)

These Are a Few of My Favorite Western Caribbean Cruise Things ( Part 1: Cozumel & Progreso, Mexico )

These Are a Few of My Favorite Western Caribbean Cruise Things ( Part 2: Belize, Honduras, Grand Cayman, and Jamaica )

Read about our Mediterranean cruise  here  and British Isles cruise  here  and Alaskan Cruise  here .

Don’t forget a corkscrew ( read about my TSA-compliant Carry-On Corkscrew here )!

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4 Replies to “Downtown Nassau on Your Own: Walking Guide”

Thank you so much for this walking tour. My husband and I recently went to Nassau (Nov 2018) and walked this route. We had so much fun. We walked through the Graycliff gardens to get to the chocolate factory, heard good music and had good eats along the way. I asked him what was his favorite part of the cruise and he said “Walking in Nassau!”. I definitely agree

Oh Jayel, thank you for checking back, that means so much to me. I’m so glad you had a great time exploring on your own. Historic Nassau is so much fun! Thanks again!

We are going on a cruise in February. We are taking our 4 kids ages 10yr – 17yrs plus my parents. How safe is it to go out on your own with having the kids along? Any Areas to stay away from? We are debating whether to go on out or purchase an excursion. We will have about 5 or 6 hours to spend & we want to do beach time to snorkel and relax for a few hours but we also want to explore Nassau. Any tips and is there enough time to do both? Thank you!

Hi Holly! Some of the sidewalks in historic downtown are narrow or non-existent, which requires crossing busy streets, so that’s something to consider. I felt safe otherwise. Since your group has a wide range of ages/energy levels together during a relatively short excursion day, Nassau on your own might not please everyone (or would you be able to do everything). You could taxi up to Fort Fincastle and then end up at Junkanoo Beach and get a bit of both sites.

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Bahamian Capital Adventures

• Nassau Shore Excursions

One of the best ways to explore this stunning destination is through its shore excursions. From thrilling adventures to cultural experiences, Nassau has it all. Let's take a closer look at some of the top Nassau, Bahamas shore excursions you should consider.

For families seeking an aquatic expedition, the Atlantis Aquaventure Waterpark stands as a premier destination. This sprawling waterpark offers thrilling water slides, lazy river rides, and a mesmerizing aquarium filled with marine life. Families can bond over the excitement of the waterpark's various attractions, creating cherished memories in a vibrant and tropical setting.

If you're a fan of marine life, the Dip 'N Discover dolphin interaction is an activity you won't want to miss. This interactive experience allows you to get up close and personal with dolphins in a natural lagoon setting. Learn about their behaviors, participate in hands-on activities and even enjoy a swim with these incredible creatures.

History and cultural enthusiasts can explore Nassau's rich heritage through the Nassau walking tour. Guided tours take participants through the city's historic districts, showcasing landmarks like the Government House, Queen's Staircase and Fort Fincastle. Families, couples and seniors can absorb the charm of Nassau's colonial architecture while gaining insights into the island's past.

If you're looking for a journey on the high seas, the Blackbeard's Pirate Revenge ship adventure is the excursion for you. Step aboard a replica of a 17th-century pirate ship and set sail on an unforgettable journey. Enjoy swashbuckling activities, watch thrilling performances and even have a chance to fire the ship's cannons. This excursion is great for families and those with an adventurous spirit.

When it comes to food, Nassau doesn't disappoint. The Junkanoo Carnaval Village food excursion offers a taste of the local cuisine and a glimpse into the vibrant Junkanoo culture. Sample delicious Bahamian dishes like conch fritters, jerk chicken and coconut pie while enjoying live music and dance performances. This excursion is a food lover's paradise and a fantastic way to indulge in the flavors of the Bahamas.

Snorkeling enthusiasts can dive into the crystal-clear waters surrounding Nassau for an underwater adventure. The crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean are home to beautiful coral reefs and a variety of marine life. Join a snorkeling excursion and dive into this underwater paradise, where you can swim alongside colorful fish, sea turtles and even encounter friendly dolphins.

For those who enjoy a good drink, a rum-tasting excursion is a great way to experience the flavors of the Bahamas. Visit local distilleries and learn about the process of rum-making while sampling different varieties of this beloved spirit. Whether you prefer light and fruity rum or rich and intense flavors, this excursion is sure to delight your taste buds.

For a day of relaxation and sun-soaked beaches, Pearl Island Beach is the perfect destination. Take a short boat ride to this private island paradise and bask in the golden sands and crystal-clear waters. Enjoy swimming, sunbathing or simply unwind with a refreshing drink in hand.

Nassau, Bahamas offers a wide range of shore excursions that cater to every interest and age group. From thrilling water parks to cultural tours, underwater explorations and even culinary delights, there's something for everyone in this Caribbean paradise. So, whether you're planning a family vacation, a romantic getaway or a seniors retreat, Nassau is the perfect destination to create unforgettable memories through its exciting shore excursions.

Experience Nassau Shore Excursions with these sailings

Complete your adventure with these shore excursions

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Audio Tours

Our local expert guides have recorded some of our most popular tours as self-guided audio tours.

We have partnered with Atlantis Audio Tours to provide you with a convenient way to experience our tours.

Each tour offers an off-line option to view the map and hear the audio of each walk so that you don't need to have GPS maps running with the app.

Here is how it works:

• Purchase an audio tour from our Booking Page.
• You’ll receive a confirmation email with a .pdf, Google Map link, and audio tour.
• Enjoy the tour(s).

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2024 Gloucester Garden Tour

July 6, 2024 @ 10:00AM — 4:00PM Eastern Time (US & Canada) Add to Calendar

O'Maley Middle School : 23 Cherry Street Gloucester, MA 01930 Get Directions

Join Generous Gardeners for the 12th Annual Gloucester Garden Tour

Generous Gardeners 12th Annual Gloucester Garden Tour

July 6, 2024

Generous Gardeners 12 th Annual Gloucester Garden Tour

This year Generous Gardeners welcomes you to the Wheeler's Point area of Gloucester. We are pleased to present this unique neighborhood surrounded by the Annisquam River, the Mill River, Ipswich Bay and Jones Creek, so several of the gardens offer stunning water views. The gardeners themselves range from novice to very experienced and provide you with a full range of annual, perennial and vegetable gardens. This is a walking or biking tour only. No cars allowed. Shuttle buses will bring you to the beginning of the tour which is a lovely 1.4 mile stroll, unfortunately not handicapped accessible. From the parking area, it is a 3 mile loop. Rain or shine. No pets. Photography welcome. Tickets: $35.

10 a.m.–4 p.m.

A big thank you to our sponsors!

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This ticket will be exchanged for the tour booklet on the day of the tour.

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Explore the world's largest open-air marine habitat and discover Dolphin Cay’s extraordinary environment and marine mammal interaction programs. Dolphin Cay is one of the most sophisticated marine habitats in the world with the Caribbean’s premier marine life rescue and rehabilitation facility. Every Marine Adventure and Dolphin Cay program supports the Atlantis Blue Project Foundation , a non-profit working to protect coral reefs and sea life.

Day passes are required for non-Atlantis guests to access Aquaventure, Dolphin Cay, the marine habitat, and beaches. The passes can be purchased - on a limited basis.

BOOK YOUR Dolphin cay EXPERIENCE TODAY

We are proud to be one of the select facilities to be accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), and recently earned the distinction of Global Humane Certified™, the international brand of American Humane, for our high standards of care and animal welfare.

We are also accredited by the Alliance of Marine Mammal Parks and Aquariums , and the International Marine Animal Trainers Association .

These accreditations solidify our commitment to delivering the highest standards of care to more than 250 species of animals at Atlantis Paradise Island, in addition to protecting marine animals and their habitats in the wild.

Every visit to Dolphin Cay contributes to Atlantis Blue Project Foundation, a non-profit organization that creates & promotes solutions for marine conservation challenges, from coral reef degradation to helping save marine species in decline.

Paradise is full of adventures, explorations, discoveries, and experiences that make every stay more exciting than the next.

Immerse yourself in one of the world’s most extraordinary open-air marine habitats, including Dolphin Cay, home to rescued dolphins, sea lions, and native Bahamian reef species. Our dedicated team creates unforgettable memories and a deeper understanding of marine animals, and the importance of ocean conservation.

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